Technology fit with organisational values matrix
Often, when choosing a new technology, the only consideration is whether it has the functionality an organisation needs. Functionality is certainly an important selection criterion, but another aspect should not be forgotten. Since technologies also influence the so-called socio-technical system of an organisation, it should also be considered whether this technological influence is rather positive, negative or neutral on staff, clients or the whole organisation.
Corporate values are particularly important in the social sector. Putting them at risk by using inappropriate technology should be avoided at all costs. For this reason, BELVEDERE has developed a simple tool to check the fit between technology and corporate values.
Practical example: In the BELVEDERE project, we conducted a survey of the participating organisations at the beginning. Among other questions, we asked What are the main quality criteria you apply to the results of your work with clients? (outcome quality) and: Which processes in your work with clients should not be negatively affected by the use of technology? (process quality)
With the results, we have created a review matrix for each of the quality aspects mentioned (see matrix below). For each aspect we ask Does the technology have the potential to influence this aspect positively or negatively, or can we assume that there is no impact?
In terms of application of this matrix, you could set up this matrix with your own organisation’s quality goals and hand it to a group of testers from your own organisation asking them to fill it in (i.e. put a cross in each row) after they have tested a technology. Such testing could be done in-house, but it can also be helpful to have such an evaluation grid to support a visit to a trade show to ask exhibitors the questions that are most relevant to one’s own organisation.
| Negative Impact The technology … | No impact | Positive Impact The technology … | not applicable |
|---|---|---|---|
| ☐ hinders clients to make informed decisions | ☐ | ☐ helps clients to make informed decisions | ☐ |
| ☐ impedes client’s right to self-determination | ☐ | ☐ strengthens each client’s right to self-determination | ☐ |
| ☐ contributes to a non-appreciative, top-down way of dealing with each other | ☐ | ☐ secures and strengthens an appreciative attitude at eye level | ☐ |
| ☐ prevents transparency although this would be necessary | ☐ | ☐ strengthens transparency where and when needed | ☐ |
| etc. |
Practical example: One organisation in the project identified as particularly relevant in the survey that its clients should always be empowered to make informed decisions. The right to self-determination should also be strengthened. Accordingly, these aspects can be found as outcome quality in the matrix in the column “Positive Impact”. In terms of process quality, it was stated, among other things, that a an appreciative attitude at eye level is considered essential and that transparency should be created whenever and wherever necessary. These objectives are also entered in the matrix in the “Positive Impact” column.